Dogma and hierarchy are endemic to such structures...indeed, such are the structures of any theocracy. - Dan Simmons

If one is to observe, M. Endymion, one must be in the proper place to observe.

The universe is indifferent to our fates. This was the crushing burden that the character took with him as he struggled through the surf toward survival or extinction. The universe just does not give a shit.

I began to understand. “A Faustian bargain...,” I said.
“The Faustian bargain,” said the girl. “All the church had to do to gain the universe was sell its soul.”